The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) […]

The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) says the growing culture of young people dating older, wealthy partners for financial support is putting their future, health and dignity at risk.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Zambian Business Times -ZBT, CCZ General Secretary Rev. Canon James Phiri said so-called “sugar daddy” and “sugar mummy” relationships are largely fuelled by poverty and unequal power, leaving many young people vulnerable to exploitation.

Phiri said these relationships expose young people to emotional abuse, sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies and the loss of their dignity. He said young people should never be treated as commodities to be pursued for money or material benefits, adding that every child and youth deserves to grow in an environment that nurtures their God-given potential.

Phiri said relationships should be based on love, respect, responsibility and commitment, not financial dependency or manipulation. The cleric urged parents, guardians, churches, schools, Government and communities to work together in tackling the economic and social challenges pushing young people into transactional relationships.

 Phiri said empowering young people through education, mentorship, life skills and economic opportunities would help reduce their vulnerability. He added that the Church remained committed to promoting family values, moral integrity and the protection of young people, urging society to safeguard the dignity of every child and youth.

Article by Karen Ngulube